What could potentially prevent site infections?

Timely dressing changes are crucial for preventing site infections in intravenous therapy. Keeping the IV site properly covered and clean helps protect it from exposure to pathogens that could lead to infections. Dressings can accumulate moisture, bacteria, and other debris over time, which can increase the risk of infection if not changed regularly. By ensuring that the dressing is timely changed, healthcare providers can maintain a sterile environment around the IV site, significantly reducing the risk of complications such as phlebitis, cellulitis, or systemic infections that could arise from biofilm formation on the catheter.

Other strategies, such as pain management and monitoring vital signs, play important roles in overall patient care but do not specifically address infection prevention at the IV site. Allowing excessive movement of the IV site can also increase the risk of trauma or phlebitis, further heightening the chance of infection. In contrast, regular dressing changes directly enhance the integrity of the IV site and help maintain an effective barrier to contaminants.